Dispersed camping near Fort Laramie, Wyoming occurs primarily at elevations between 4,200 and 4,600 feet, creating distinct temperature variations between day and night. The North Platte River watershed provides a riparian corridor through this high plains region, with cottonwood trees offering limited shade at some sites. Camping options range from basic dispersed sites without facilities to state park campgrounds with established amenities, with most sites subject to seasonal closures or reduced services from November through March.
What to Do
Fishing access points: At Grayrocks Reservoir Public Access, anglers can find both shore fishing and boat launch facilities for catching walleye and other species. One visitor noted, "We found a spot right on the lakeside which was secluded from everyone. If you are looking for trees, this is not the place. Bring lots of water toys."
Historical site visits: Plan day trips to nearby historical landmarks from Lewis Park as your base camp. The park is "located in the city park, there are a few tent camping spots and about 15 RV camping spots, some with electric hookups," making it convenient for exploring Fort Laramie National Historic Site and the Oregon Trail ruts.
Watersports during silt run: Time your visit to Guernsey State Park Campground for mid-July to experience a unique phenomenon. A camper shared, "The best time we had here was during the silt run, which is in mid-July each year. Water being released from Glendo Reservoir will flow through Guernsey Reservoir flushing silt from Guernsey Reservoir into the canals of downstream irrigators."
What Campers Like
Yurt accommodations: The four yurts at Guernsey State Park rent for $40/night and provide an alternative to tent camping. According to a guest: "Clean, all have electricity. Bunk beds with mattresses and fold out futon couch. Wood fire stove if you need heat. Shared pit toilet, bring toilet paper."
Beach camping spots: Waterfront sites at Grayrocks Reservoir Public Access provide direct lake access for swimming during summer months. A recent camper advised, "We got in around 6pm and the first few sites were full, only had to drive in about 10-15 to find an open spot that worked for us! Was right on the water and only 2 cars drove by the site around 9… other than that, saw no one!"
Town park camping: Several towns offer municipal parks with RV hookups at minimal cost. A visitor to Pioneer Park in Torrington shared, "This is an awesome city park. Water and electric on concrete pads. Good spacing between sites. Clean and open. Nice to walk about the whole area. Concrete bean bag toss games and about 5 horseshoe pitches."
What You Should Know
Weather considerations: High winds frequently affect the area, particularly at open sites like Grayrocks Reservoir. A camper reported, "Very windy as we went to bed around 9 but it was the perfect weather to fall asleep too!"
Insect situations: Biting flies can be problematic at certain times of the year. According to a visitor at Two Moon — Glendo State Park, "Mosquitoes were in full force but to be expected." Another camper at Grayrocks noted, "The mosquitos were present but didn't bite much. The flies were definitely biting but nothing pants and a sweatshirt can't fix!"
Train noise: Several campgrounds in the area experience railroad noise. A Lewis Park camper mentioned, "The train tracks are very close, so expect a train or two during the night."
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking during peak summer months. At Guernsey State Park, one visitor cautioned, "If you plan to use the showerhouse, call the park first and check it's open!"
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Choose city parks for family camping with built-in entertainment. A visitor to Pioneer Park shared, "Pioneer Park is a small but nice stop in Torrington. It is located in town but still feels like you're secluded. There is a stream and river within the park. There are trails, frisbee golf, horseshoes, playground, amphitheater, and basketball hoop."
Swimming options: During summer heat, waterfront camping at Two Moon — Glendo State Park provides relief. A camper reported, "This is a great spot to bring your boat and a group. We had a ton of fun on the water."
Budget-friendly stays: Municipal parks often provide the best value for families. Lewis Park receives donations rather than charging fixed fees, with a camper noting, "Great little community park that offers RV and tent sites for free. Limited to camping 3 days. Well maintained city park with community pool, mini golf, playground, grills, tennis courts and skatepark."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: When seeking full-service sites, check which facilities are actually functioning. At Pony Soldier RV Park, one RVer reported, "Personnel were very friendly. Parking is on dirt but it's level and well packed sand. Full hookups at each site. Everything is clean and well manicured. Electric pedestals, water spigots, and sewer hookups are in excellent condition and easy to use."
RV length considerations: Many area campgrounds have limitations on vehicle size. A visitor to Peak View RV Park noted, "Accommodated spaces are 60ft max length."
Dump station access: Even when staying at primitive sites, dump facilities are available at several locations. A Lewis Park camper shared, "Water and dump stations are nearby. Individual sites are reasonably maintained but could use a little mowing and leveling."
